I went to my cousin David’s wedding this weekend and was invited to join the boys for an informal Bachelor party before the main event. Ten guys, a big bottle of Makers Mark, a deck of cards, poker chips and me. Did I feel out of place? Not at all. There were no strippers in sight and the guys warmly embraced me. If anything, I felt center-stage!

After some obligatory mingling, we got right down to business for some hardcore poker playing ala Texas Hold ‘Em. Just so you know, I am not a card shark. I go to Vegas not for the gambling, but for the nightlife, shopping and eating. I can drop a few quarters in a slot machine and go home happy. So when I was pressured into partaking in the game, I reluctantly agreed. I hardly know how to play poker, so there was some brush-up needed and a few practice rounds to get my game on. Once I was comfortable enough (again, all eyes on me:), we threw in money and it was each (wo)man for himself. Call it beginners luck, but I cleaned house, surprising even the groom-to-be, sweeping round after round and eventually taking most of the pot, which I felt a little hesitant over, thinking I should have donated it to his honeymoon fund. C’est la vie, Texas Hold ‘Em shows mercy on no one!

Coincidentally enough, when I was checking my email the next morning, I was thrilled to learn that my new found interest didn’t have to cease after the wedding weekend ended. There is a weekly Texas Hold ‘Em tournament held at trendy Flatiron bar and restaurant, Taj. A great way to meet new people, develop your card-playing skills and earn enough money to pay off that credit card debt, you’ll know where to find me on any given Thursday night. Hmmmm, maybe I *should* rethink that trip to Vegas…

When: Every Thursday
Where: 48 W. 21st St. (5th & 6th Aves.), Flatiron
Host: TAJ Restaurant & Lounge
What: Texas Hold ‘Em
Come press your luck and bring your best poker face for a friendly game of Texas Hold ‘Em. Music will be provided by Smooth G & Suhel Versace, and an open vodka bar will be held from 10:30pm-11:30pm.
For more info: Call 212.620.3033